Wi-Fi calling

Wi-Fi calling (also known as VoWiFi: Voice over Wi-Fi) is a feature that lets you make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network. This allows you to stay connected even when you have little to no mobile reception. On this page, we’ll explain the benefits of Wi-Fi calling, what you need to get started, and how to set it up on your phone.

How does Wi-Fi calling work?

Today, all major providers and MVNOs offer Wi-Fi calling as a standard feature, and almost all modern smartphones support it. Once enabled, your phone will automatically use a Wi-Fi network to handle calls when your “normal” mobile signal is weak – perfect for indoor “black spots” or rural areas with limited coverage. It also works while flight mode is switched on, provided your Wi-Fi is connected.

Please note! While most providers support Wi-Fi calling, availability can depend on your specific mobile plan or handset. In most cases, the feature is available on pay monthly plans, and by 2026, it has become a standard inclusion on almost all prepaid plans as well. If you bought your phone from a different provider or overseas, it’s worth checking if it’s compatible with your current network. You can find specific compatibility details on your provider’s website.

There is no extra monthly charge to use Wi-Fi calling. Calls are typically deducted from your plan’s standard talk allowance, just like a regular mobile call. Because the call goes over Wi-Fi, it doesn’t use your mobile data. Another big plus is the improved call quality – by using a combination of Wi-Fi calling and 4G/5G calling (known as VoLTE and VoNR), calls connect almost instantly and sound much clearer.

Pros of Wi-Fi calling

  • Better coverage
  • Clearer audio
  • No extra fees

Cons of Wi-Fi calling

  • Relies on Wi-Fi stability
  • Location tracking issues for emergency calls (111)
  • Emergency mobile alerts may not be received

Using Wi-Fi calling overseas 

One of the biggest perks in 2026 is using Wi-Fi calling while travelling. Some NZ providers allow you to call home over Wi-Fi from abroad without triggering daily roaming charges. However, this varies between telcos – some may still charge you as if you were in NZ, while others might block the feature outside of the country. Always check your provider’s specific roaming policy before you head off.

What is the difference between Wi-Fi calling and 4G calling?

4G calling allows you to make calls over the 4G or 5G network rather than dropping back to older technologies. Since the 3G network shutdown in New Zealand, 4G calling has become the standard for all mobile calls. Wi-Fi calling is an extension of this; it uses your Wi-Fi router to reach the network instead of a mobile tower. Usually, having 4G calling active is a requirement for Wi-Fi calling to work.

What happens if I leave the Wi-Fi range during a call?

If your Wi-Fi connection drops out, most modern networks will seamlessly hand the call over to the 4G or 5G network without the call cutting out. As long as your telco and phone support both features, the switch should be unnoticeable.

Will my phone work with Wi-Fi calling?

Since the 3G network shutdown, Wi-Fi calling and 4G calling have become standard features for almost every smartphone sold in New Zealand.

  • iPhone: If you’re using an iPhone 13 or newer, you’re definitely covered. By 2026, even older models like the iPhone 11 and 12 are considered “legacy” but still support the feature perfectly on all NZ networks. Just make sure you’ve updated to the latest version of iOS to keep things running smoothly.
  • Android: Pretty much any modern Android device – like the Samsung Galaxy S series, Google Pixel, or recent OPPO models – supports Wi-Fi calling. If your phone was bought from a New Zealand retailer or provider within the last five years, it’s almost certain to work.

A note on international models: If you bought your phone overseas or from an online “grey market” importer, Wi-Fi calling might not always play nice with Kiwi networks. Telcos like Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees prefer handsets that are specifically configured for the New Zealand market to ensure these features work reliably.

How to activate Wi-Fi calling on your device

Each provider might have slightly different steps, so it’s always a good idea to check their website. Here is how you generally enable it on the most popular brands in New Zealand.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on iPhone

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Mobile.
  3. Tap Wi-Fi Calling.
  4. Toggle Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone to ON.
  5. Select Enable if a pop-up appears.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on Samsung Galaxy

  1. Open the phone app and tap the More options (three dots) icon.
  2. Tap Settings.
  3. Find Wi-Fi Calling and toggle the switch to ON.
  4. If prompted for emergency location info, follow the prompts to save your details.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on Google Pixel

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Network & internet > SIMs.
  3. Select your active SIM.
  4. Tap Wi-Fi Calling and toggle it ON.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on Xiaomi

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select SIM cards & mobile networks.
  3. Choose your active SIM card.
  4. Toggle Make calls using Wi-Fi to ON.

Enable Wi-Fi calling on OPPO

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Mobile Network.
  3. Select your active SIM card.
  4. Tap Wi-Fi Calling and toggle it ON.

Once you’ve turned the setting on, you might need to restart your phone for the service to register with your provider.

Are apps like WhatsApp and messenger the same as Wi-Fi calling?

Not exactly. While apps like WhatsApp and Messenger also use Wi-Fi to make calls, they require both people to have the same app installed. Wi-Fi calling is built into your phone’s dialler – you can call any landline or mobile number just like a normal call, without needing any extra apps or profiles.